Kitchen know-how

12 foodie gifts under $50

Christmas is fast approaching and your list of must-buy presents is beginning to look like impending bankruptcy. Don't resort to buying another box of Roses. Here's a list of cost-friendly present ideas for the foodie in your life.

Better yet, I've ensured that they're all less than $50. With gifts ranging from $7.99 to $49.90, there's something for every budget.

Story by Isabeau Brimeau

Oven mitt, boltofcloth.com, $24.99
The perfect gift for that always hungry friend. Best to remind them that you're calling them beautiful, and there's nothing wrong with eating a lot.

Hipstory coasters, shutthefrontdoor.co.nz, $7.99
What would the Dalai Lama look like if he was a hipster? Here's illustrator Shimoni's interpretation. Collect alternative takes on Obama, Trump and The Queen – there are seven in total. These coasters are a great secret santa gift.

Kiwiana spatula, museumswellington.org.nz, $10.50
Bring a little bit of New Zealand nature into the kitchen with this vibrant tui spatula. Small and friendly on the wallet, it's perfect as a stocking filler.

Rilki cheese knife set, Country Road, $44.90
Sweet dreams are made of cheese. Even sweeter dreams are made of gold cheese knives.

Tofutree apron, ikoiko.co.nz, $29.90
100 per cent cotton, vibrant and fun – this secret garden apron is a great addition to any foodie's kitchen.

Watermelon slicer, notsocks.co.nz, $14.95
Cutting up a watermelon can seem like messy, tiresome task. Not anymore. The watermelon slicer cuts precise pieces of juicy fruit. Even better, the tong function allows you to transport each slice with minimal mess.

Venchi 140 year anniversary box, sabato.co.nz, $19.90
Beautifully-packaged, bow and all, this is the sweetest gift you could receive. Plus, who doesn't love a stash of Christmas chocolate?

Marble carved serving board, cittadesign.co.nz, $49.90
Christmas is the season for platters and over-indulging. Buy this serving board for the friend that loves to put their cheeses on show.

Ramen kitchen art, etsy.com, prices from $20.61
Give the gift of art this Christmas. If your friend loves cooking, or is particularly fond of ramen, this is the print for them. The company is based in the UK so be prepared to pay for shipping. But, in my opinion, it's worth the extra dollars.

Escuminac Extra Rare Amber Maple Syrup, sabato.co.nz, $21.90
A gift for the ultimate brunch king or queen in your life. This extra rare, single-forest maple syrup is liquid gold. Pour over waffles, pancakes, porridge or straight into your mouth.